Lightning Returns: Final Fantasy XIII - Out now!

[Scarlett.]

http://static4.wikia.nocookie.net/__cb20120901042251/finalfantasy/images/d/de/Lightning_Returns_Final_Fantasy_XIII_Logo.png

[Tom4784]

I wonder if we'll get XIII Versus before we all die of old age?

[Scarlett.]

I think Versus is a pipe dream, still XIII-3 doesn't affect the development of Versus, with them being two teams, it's all down to the Versus dev team being as slow as turtles.

[Tom4784]

The Lightning DLC killed my hype for the 3rd one, it was such a tedious bore and a complete disappointment.

[Scarlett.]

I played a little, then decided to watch it on Youtube :p

[Novo]

Still haven't played XIII-2 yet.. brought it a few weeks ago and now i am replaying FFXIII so i can complete it at last and start with FFXIII-2

[Scarlett.]

Still haven't played XIII-2 yet.. brought it a few weeks ago and now i am replaying FFXIII so i can complete it at last and start with FFXIII-2

XIII-2 is a massive improvement on XIII :dance:

[BBfanUSA]

I AM STOKED. I'm almost done and I'm on The last episode on the 2nd game (Accidentally was spoiled what happened in the end and the Lightning DLC)

Played FFXIII a little bit. And as soon as I finish FFXIII-2 I'll buy the first game

[Scarlett.]

I loved the main ending to XIII-2, it blew me away.

[BBfanUSA]

Don't tell me what happens but

All I know is Serah Dies :(

[rayheartbliss]

they should leave 13 for what cr*p it is and create a brand new final fantasy from scratch!!!!!

[Novo]

Do you have to pay for the main ending or something?

[Scarlett.]

Do you have to pay for the main ending or something?

Nah, there's a little extention to the ending in one of the DLCs, but really, it's worth just watching that on Youtube. :hugesmile:

[Tom4784]

Yeah I wouldn't recommend the Lightning DLC at all, it's just the same two fights over and over again.

The core game is great though although it is fairly short. The Colliseum DLC is fun if you've got a spare bit of change since a lot of the battles challenge you to use the game system in different ways, You won't get very far in the DLC by using a Sentinel and two Ravagers for example. I did like the ending, I can see why a lot of people didn't but I thought it was daring.

XIII-3 will be excellent if Square Enix continues to pay attention to criticism and improve the problem areas of the XIII franchise. I do hope XIII-3 will be the last one though. Even though there's two different teams working on them maybe Versus will get more attention from Square Enix once the XIII series is done and dusted.

[Tom4784]

Yeah I wouldn't recommend the Lightning DLC at all, it's just the same two fights over and over again.

The core game is great though although it is fairly short. The Colliseum DLC is fun if you've got a spare bit of change since a lot of the battles challenge you to use the game system in different ways, You won't get very far in the DLC by using a Sentinel and two Ravagers for example. I did like the ending, I can see why a lot of people didn't but I thought it was daring.

XIII-3 will be excellent if Square Enix continues to pay attention to criticism and improve the problem areas of the XIII franchise. I do hope XIII-3 will be the last one though. Even though there's two different teams working on them maybe Versus will get more attention from Square Enix once the XIII series is done and dusted.

[Mystic Mock]

I have a feeling that XV and Versus are the same thing so don't worry I think Versus will be out soon.

[BBfanUSA]

Yeah I wouldn't recommend the Lightning DLC at all, it's just the same two fights over and over again.

The core game is great though although it is fairly short. The Colliseum DLC is fun if you've got a spare bit of change since a lot of the battles challenge you to use the game system in different ways, You won't get very far in the DLC by using a Sentinel and two Ravagers for example. I did like the ending, I can see why a lot of people didn't but I thought it was daring.

XIII-3 will be excellent if Square Enix continues to pay attention to criticism and improve the problem areas of the XIII franchise. I do hope XIII-3 will be the last one though. Even though there's two different teams working on them maybe Versus will get more attention from Square Enix once the XIII series is done and dusted.

I think it will be the last.

People who hate XIII and want Versus and KHIII are RAGING right now. The only complaint I had about FFXIII-2 was that it's too short. and they falsely advertised Lightning.

[Scarlett.]

Final Fantasy fans rage about everything. At the end of the day, it's not the XIII's teams fault that Versus isn't out. I mean seriously, what could be taking so long with that game?

[Scarlett.]

A Final Fantasy XIII sequel will be unveiled at an upcoming anniversary event, Square Enix has confirmed.

Producer Yoshinori Kitase told Famitsu (via Andriasang) that the game has just entered production and that its full title will be revealed at the Final Fantasy event in Tokyo.

The anniversary event takes place from August 31 until September 2. The Final Fantasy XIII-3 announcement is expected to take place on September 1.

An unveiling had been expected after Final Fantasy XIII and Final Fantasy XIII-2 director Motomu Toriyama said that the team is not finished with the cliffhanger ending of Final Fantasy XIII-2.

Lightning's Story: Requiem of the Goddess released in May, and was said to be the last DLC for Final Fantasy XIII-2. With no new DLC planned, Toriyama's comments point towards a sequel.

The publisher is also still working on Final Fantasy Versus XIII, which has had a troubled development cycle over the past several years.

Square Enix recently announced that it is also bringing back fan-favourite game Final Fantasy VII on PC through the company's online store.

[Tom4784]

Yeah I heard about that event a while back, from what I've heard they'll be announcing a Kingdom Hearts Project as well. If anything comes from it I hope that it's KH3 or a HD remake of the first two.

[Scarlett.]

FINAL FANTASY XIII TEAM TO PRESENT NEW DIRECTION FOR THE SAGA OF KEY CHARACTER, LIGHTNING

The "Lightning Saga" that started with the release of FINAL FANTASY XIII, has achieved a cumulative shipment of over 9.6 million units; and in May 2012 FINAL FANTASY XIII-2 was brought to conclusion with the add-on content entitled "Lightning's Story: Requiem of the Goddess".

Key members of the FINAL FANTASY XIII development team including the Producer, Director and Art Director, are in preparations to present new information about the direction of Lightning's story. This presentation will take place at an event in Tokyo to celebrate FINAL FANTASY 25th Anniversary, on 1st September 2012.

Official website (http://finalfantasy13game.com/astormgathers/)

[Scarlett.]

So, anyone pick up on this?

http://i45.tinypic.com/34euiyr.jpg
http://doctorwhotv.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/Doctor-Who-Victory-of-the-Daleks-Next-Time-4.jpg

[BBfanUSA]

Teaser Trailer will be released? I am so stoked

[MeMyselfAndI]

I played the first one, It was alright

[Scarlett.]

XIII-2 was awesome :) I can't wait for the next one

[Scarlett.]

http://finalfantasy13game.com/lightningreturns/libs/images/title.png?1346496479499

http://finalfantasy13game.com/lightningreturns/libs/images/art_01.jpg
http://finalfantasy13game.com/lightningreturns/libs/images/art_02.jpg
http://finalfantasy13game.com/lightningreturns/libs/images/art_03.jpg


WH6UMTcuau4


:dance::dance::dance::dance:


SQUARE ENIX UNVEILS
LIGHTNING RETURNS: FINAL FANTASY XIII

Coming to Xbox 360 and PlayStation®3 in 2013

LONDON (September 1st, 2012) – Square Enix Ltd., the publishers of SQUARE ENIX® interactive entertainment products in Europe and across PAL territories, today unveiled the concluding chapter to the story of the iconic and popular character, Lightning, at a fan-filled 25th anniversary event of the FINAL FANTASY® franchise held in Tokyo, Japan.

LIGHTNING RETURNS™: FINAL FANTASY XIII is a new FINAL FANTASY adventure that gives the player direct control over iconic heroine Lightning in a constantly moving, expansive environment, on a quest to save a doomed world from complete destruction. How will you spend your final days?

"We are pleased to reveal that Lightning is returning as the playable character in this title, and are excited to see how fans react to the more direct battle system and expansive environment that can be explored at will" said Producer Yoshinori Kitase.

Motomu Toriyama, Director added; "Increased levels of player freedom, customisation and connectivity with the real world, will ensure that this concluding chapter will be an exhilarating finale to Lightning's story."

LIGHTNING UNDER YOUR CONTROL

Lightning will be the playable character - with a highly evolved range of techniques for battles and exploring the environment. Customise Lightning with a large range of different outfits and weapons; that affect not only the way she looks, but also her actions and abilities.


ACTION-ORIENTED COMBAT

A new battle system gives a level of direct control over the action unlike any FINAL FANTASY game, while having iconic elements that are known and loved throughout the series too.
A CONSTANTLY MOVING, BEAUTIFUL WORLD

Stunning artistic direction depicts a doomed world filled with choice and diversity. Living, expansive environments featuring a rising and setting sun, provide unique experiences for every player.
USE YOUR TIME WELL

A world on a course for total annihilation presents unique challenges; where certain areas, missions, and people will only be available during selected periods. How will you use your remaining time?
A CONNECTED EXPERIENCE

Stay connected to FINAL FANTASY and its characters, with unique features that link the in-game world to the real world.

LIGHTNING RETURNS: FINAL FANTASY XIII is due for release in 2013.

[Tom4784]

I am completely unimpressed. From what I've heard they've gone for a Majora's Mask style of gameplay in that you're constantly against the clock which goes against this whole exploration angle they're going for. I'm also completely bored of Lightning, she's just a giant mess of cliches now and focusing the game solely around her has definitely salted my interest. Square just loves to run their characters into the ground.

There's a small possibility I might change my mind when I see more of it but at the moment I just wished they ended it properly at X-2 because nothing about this menagerie of **** ideas appeals to me at all.

[Scarlett.]

Apparently there is ways to delay and turn the countdown clock back, I'm excited for this, especially the way the described the new world. In the picture of the world, you can see New Cocoon in the background.

[Tom4784]

You could do that in Majora's Mask, I still hated that game though. It just sounds like a mess and the lack of even an announcement trailer doesn't bode well. Why are they hiding the gameplay if it's due out next year? What's so bad about it that they didn't show any footage whatsoever of it at an announcement they've been hyping up for months?

My expectations aren't high.

[Scarlett.]

From what I gather they only really announced it, because it's the whole FF 25th Anniversary, that said, they said there will be more information and stuff soon.

[Scarlett.]

From the sounds of this article
http://www.1up.com/previews/lightning-returns-final-fantasy-xiii-first-looks
Something was shown, but not to the general public just yet

[Tom4784]

Meh, I'm still not convinced. The time idea is awful and constantly restarting just makes it sound like the game length isn't that long and they're just making you play it over and over to stretch it out like the Lightning DLC.

That alone is enough to put me off never mind the other questionable decisions.

[Scarlett.]

I have to admit when I heard that, I got a "eeeehhhh" feeling, but I'll wait and see how it pans out

[Mystic Mock]

It sounds interesting if not a little bit repetitive after a bit, it shall be interesting to see how Square pulls this off.

[Scarlett.]

Square Enix has revealed new details about Lightning Returns: Final Fantasy XIII in the latest issue of Famitsu magazine.

The game will feature Lightning as the sole playable character, and will be the last game in her story. Unlike Final Fantasy XIII-2, it will only have one ending, which Square Enix assures fans will be a happy ending.

The example was given that if Final Fantasy XIII is a story-driven game, and Final Fantasy XIII-2 is a character-driven game, then Lightning Returns: Final Fantasy XIII would be considered a world-driven game. Players will have to adapt to the game's various ecosystems and characters will behave according to their own schedules.

Though Lightning will have greater freedom of movement during combat, battles will not be entirely action focused. For example, the series' signature active-time battle gauge will be used and some elements of the battle system will be timing-based. However, there will not be a battle menu, with actions instead assigned directly to buttons.

The game will take place during the last 13 days before the end of the world, with each in-game day said to take between one to two hours of real time. Time can be increased or decreased based on the player's actions, with even the possibility of ending the world before the 13-day limit. As such, the game is meant to be played multiple times and will not take dozens of hours to complete.

Square Enix also revealed that though Lightning Returns takes place many years after the events of its predecessors, the characters from Final Fantasy XIII-2 will return and won't have aged. Specifically, Hope is mentioned as offering guidance to Lightning through wireless communication.

Lightning Returns: Final Fantasy XIII was announced during a 25th anniversary celebration for the series, and will be released for Xbox 360 and PlayStation 3 next year.

Glad other characters are returning

[Scarlett.]

New look Lightning
http://i.imgur.com/BfbUu.jpg

http://i.imgur.com/XaREv.jpg

[Novo]

I'm not really interested in lightning at all, I loved the story of FFXIII-2 though, Noel and Serah were great characters

[Scarlett.]

Apparently the other characters will be returning, but we wont be playing as them.

[Tom4784]

Thank god you'll be able to change how she's dressed. She looks like a bad cosplayer.

[Novo]

Awful news, think they could have made the storyline much better and opened up more doors for FFXIII-3 if they kept Serah alive and had the playable characters being Noel, Serah and Lightning but in different time periods switching back and forth, i'll probably still get it just because it's Final Fantasy

[Scarlett.]

I'm hoping her original XIII outfit will be available
http://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/en/thumb/6/62/Lightxiii.PNG/250px-Lightxiii.PNG

[Novo]

I did like the ending of FFXIII-2 though, everything seemed to fit into place and make sense after it was over

[Scarlett.]

6EGmVT9_cTo

[Tom4784]

Best thing about the trailer is that it's given birth to my new favourite gif.

http://i.minus.com/ibvmrm7irgmmJM.gif

[Scarlett.]

Lightning's catwoman glasses xD

[Scarlett.]

Looks like Chocolina is back!
http://i46.tinypic.com/2mchmyd.png

[Scarlett.]

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[Scarlett.]

New trailer!
YlOtivxdOl0

[Tom4784]

Meh, basically the same as the other trailer but recut. I'm struggling to care.

[Scarlett.]

There's not much about the story so far, all we basically know is there is a city and the world is ending, they need to tell us more.

[Scarlett.]

http://i2.cdnds.net/13/03/618x348/gaming-lightning-returns-final-fantasy-xiii-8.jpg

Lightning Returns: Final Fantasy XIII is the third game in the Final Fantasy XIII series, concluding Lightning's story and continuing to evolve its mechanics, including more action-oriented combat, more open-ended exploration and a clock counting down to the end of the world.

Like Final Fantasy XIII-2 before it, Lightning Returns continues to reinvent the Final Fantasy formula while continuing the story of Lightning, who emerges long after the events of XIII-2 and has 13 days to save Novus Patrus, the realm formed by the merging of Gran Pulse and Valhalla.

While the changes in place deviate further from the traditional Final Fantasy template - battle controls are more action-oriented, and exploration is more open - none-the-less they're exciting, welcome additions with plenty of potential.

Here are the features and changes coming to Lightning Returns: Final Fantasy XIII.

http://i1.cdnds.net/13/03/618x348/gaming-lightning-returns-final-fantasy-xiii-10.jpg

Searching clues and more open adventuring

Final Fantasy XIII was heavily criticised for its linear environments, and XIII-2 remedied that with a time-spanning adventure that saw players hop between different eras in a confusing but exciting non-linear fashion.

Signs point to Lightning Returns being the most open-ended adventure yet. One of four main areas connected together by a monorail, Luxerion is a fully explorable city with multiple districts packed with shops and characters to interact with. Exploration's revamped, too, with the ability to sprint and jump to explore new areas.

Another two areas were briefly revealed - the Wildlands and Dread Dunes - which are full of forests and camps or rolling desert sands and ancient ruins respectfully. Apart from a tutorial at the game's start, it's possible to freely visit other areas whenever you like.

Each one is also said to feature different gameplay styles. Luxerion's missions see Lightning investigate a series of murders through finding evidence, talking to eyewitnesses and following suspects from the shadows, while Wildlands and Dread Dunes offer traditional exploration and dungeon-crawling.

Changes to combat and customisation: Single-button combat and costumes

Perhaps the most significant change in Lightning Returns is to combat. With Lightning fighting solo, it paves the way for a more direct and action-oriented approach, where comments such as melee and magic are now assigned to face buttons and not a menu.

Lightning is also directly controllable in battle to evade attacks and target specific locations.

This isn't a hack-and-slash title like God of War, though; Lightning can be dressed in different costumes, each with their own moves and stats.

These replace Paradigm Shifts, whereby switching between three costumes provides access to a variety of tactics in battle.

Each one is governed by an ATB (active time battle) bar, meaning battles look to be a case of holding back the most appropriate costume attacks for the right time.

Elsewhere, equipping different swords and shields can change Lightning's stats, and the ability to tweak costume colours allow you to customise her appearance.

So while combat is definitely more hands-on and action-oriented, it's still tactical and customisable in the way you expect from a Final Fantasy game.

Time ticks away: How Lightning Returns handles the end of the world

The idea of time ticking down to doomsday is a novel one but not exactly new in games, with the likes of Legend of Zelda: Majora's Mask and Dead Rising as well-known examples.

A problem with these games is that they're often stressful, which is something director Motomu Toriyama wanted to avoid.

"With some of the games, we felt the time limit within you have to do something is a little bit too strong, it pressures the player a little bit too much, and we wanted to avoid that," he said.

"It doesn't always sit very well with free side quests either, there's too sets of time going on. It's not a strict sense of time, it's more like, in order to do this, you've got three days, so you got to achieve this in three days. It's on a day-by-day basis."

Lightning Returns has a full day and night cycle, where certain events only happen at a particular time. Time doesn't just run down, either, where under some circumstances - such as side-quests - it can be sped up or rewound.

Whether you'll able to see and do everything in one playthrough is unknown, but it appears that Lightning Returns will be replayable with a 'New Game Plus'-style system.

A "completely new title" that continues the XIII story

As the name suggests, this isn't simply Final Fantasy XIII-3. While obviously a sequel, Lightning Returns is a game also targeting new audiences.

"There are different reasons [why it's not called XIII-3], but the main one is that this is a game that anyone can enjoy, even if you haven't played the Final Fantasy franchise, not to mention Final Fantasy XIII and XIII-2, so anyone can enjoy it," explained Toriyama.

"We want to encourage people to play this game as almost like a brand new game, so we just wanted to express that information."

Lightning Returns: Final Fantasy XIII screenshot

While we find attempts to label sequels as being appropriate place to begin for franchise newcomers to be a little dishonest - Mass Effect 3 being a recent example - Lightning Returns's many new mechanics and story set-up means it's better suited as a starting point than most.

It does, obviously, continue the story of XIII, as many key characters, monster types and more will return.

While Lightning investigates the cult that seeks to bring on the end of the world, she'll be joined by Hope over the radio, and encounters two new characters – Lumina and the Shadow Hunter - who look awfully similar to Serah and Noel.

[Scarlett.]

http://i2.cdnds.net/13/03/618x348/gaming-lightning-returns-final-fantasy-xiii-8.jpg

Lightning Returns: Final Fantasy XIII is the third game in the Final Fantasy XIII series, concluding Lightning's story and continuing to evolve its mechanics, including more action-oriented combat, more open-ended exploration and a clock counting down to the end of the world.

Like Final Fantasy XIII-2 before it, Lightning Returns continues to reinvent the Final Fantasy formula while continuing the story of Lightning, who emerges long after the events of XIII-2 and has 13 days to save Novus Patrus, the realm formed by the merging of Gran Pulse and Valhalla.

While the changes in place deviate further from the traditional Final Fantasy template - battle controls are more action-oriented, and exploration is more open - none-the-less they're exciting, welcome additions with plenty of potential.

Here are the features and changes coming to Lightning Returns: Final Fantasy XIII.

http://i1.cdnds.net/13/03/618x348/gaming-lightning-returns-final-fantasy-xiii-10.jpg

Searching clues and more open adventuring

Final Fantasy XIII was heavily criticised for its linear environments, and XIII-2 remedied that with a time-spanning adventure that saw players hop between different eras in a confusing but exciting non-linear fashion.

Signs point to Lightning Returns being the most open-ended adventure yet. One of four main areas connected together by a monorail, Luxerion is a fully explorable city with multiple districts packed with shops and characters to interact with. Exploration's revamped, too, with the ability to sprint and jump to explore new areas.

Another two areas were briefly revealed - the Wildlands and Dread Dunes - which are full of forests and camps or rolling desert sands and ancient ruins respectfully. Apart from a tutorial at the game's start, it's possible to freely visit other areas whenever you like.

Each one is also said to feature different gameplay styles. Luxerion's missions see Lightning investigate a series of murders through finding evidence, talking to eyewitnesses and following suspects from the shadows, while Wildlands and Dread Dunes offer traditional exploration and dungeon-crawling.

Changes to combat and customisation: Single-button combat and costumes

Perhaps the most significant change in Lightning Returns is to combat. With Lightning fighting solo, it paves the way for a more direct and action-oriented approach, where comments such as melee and magic are now assigned to face buttons and not a menu.

Lightning is also directly controllable in battle to evade attacks and target specific locations.

This isn't a hack-and-slash title like God of War, though; Lightning can be dressed in different costumes, each with their own moves and stats.

These replace Paradigm Shifts, whereby switching between three costumes provides access to a variety of tactics in battle.

Each one is governed by an ATB (active time battle) bar, meaning battles look to be a case of holding back the most appropriate costume attacks for the right time.

Elsewhere, equipping different swords and shields can change Lightning's stats, and the ability to tweak costume colours allow you to customise her appearance.

So while combat is definitely more hands-on and action-oriented, it's still tactical and customisable in the way you expect from a Final Fantasy game.

Time ticks away: How Lightning Returns handles the end of the world

The idea of time ticking down to doomsday is a novel one but not exactly new in games, with the likes of Legend of Zelda: Majora's Mask and Dead Rising as well-known examples.

A problem with these games is that they're often stressful, which is something director Motomu Toriyama wanted to avoid.

"With some of the games, we felt the time limit within you have to do something is a little bit too strong, it pressures the player a little bit too much, and we wanted to avoid that," he said.

"It doesn't always sit very well with free side quests either, there's too sets of time going on. It's not a strict sense of time, it's more like, in order to do this, you've got three days, so you got to achieve this in three days. It's on a day-by-day basis."

Lightning Returns has a full day and night cycle, where certain events only happen at a particular time. Time doesn't just run down, either, where under some circumstances - such as side-quests - it can be sped up or rewound.

Whether you'll able to see and do everything in one playthrough is unknown, but it appears that Lightning Returns will be replayable with a 'New Game Plus'-style system.

A "completely new title" that continues the XIII story

As the name suggests, this isn't simply Final Fantasy XIII-3. While obviously a sequel, Lightning Returns is a game also targeting new audiences.

"There are different reasons [why it's not called XIII-3], but the main one is that this is a game that anyone can enjoy, even if you haven't played the Final Fantasy franchise, not to mention Final Fantasy XIII and XIII-2, so anyone can enjoy it," explained Toriyama.

"We want to encourage people to play this game as almost like a brand new game, so we just wanted to express that information."

While we find attempts to label sequels as being appropriate place to begin for franchise newcomers to be a little dishonest - Mass Effect 3 being a recent example - Lightning Returns's many new mechanics and story set-up means it's better suited as a starting point than most.

It does, obviously, continue the story of XIII, as many key characters, monster types and more will return.

While Lightning investigates the cult that seeks to bring on the end of the world, she'll be joined by Hope over the radio, and encounters two new characters – Lumina and the Shadow Hunter - who look awfully similar to Serah and Noel.

[Scarlett.]

http://cdn.medialib.computerandvideogames.com/screens/screenshot_298962.jpg

http://www.computerandvideogames.com/viewer.php?mode=article&id=298957#

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[Scarlett.]

5jQmhStC8yI

Finally! Some interesting story details, looks like a lot of the cast are back.

[BBfanUSA]

DAMN,

I now wish this Fantasy wasn't ending. I need to finish the first two games

[Scarlett.]

XIII is a bit of a drag, but XIII-2 was a lot of fun :p I'm looking forward to this game now, this trailer should have been the debut one.

[Scarlett.]

I'm really liking the combat, its like different moves actually count again!

9CIFQNPuujk

[Scarlett.]

http://media.tumblr.com/ff59bfa2940d732f80bc59190a20eee2/tumblr_inline_mnztdg7UUZ1qz4rgp.png

A one-time ally of Lightning, Snow was engaged to her sister, Serah. Now he is the world's last remaining l'Cie, cursed with a terrible power.

Though devastated by his failure to protect Serah, he has served as the Patron of Yusnaan for five long centuries. He protects the city and its people even as the rest of the world falls apart.

"We all come into the world alone, and that's the way we've gotta leave it."

http://www.lightningreturns.com/data/assets/lrpr/images/content/characters/snow/fight1.jpg

http://www.lightningreturns.com/data/assets/lrpr/images/content/characters/snow/closeup1.jpg
"Snow rules the city as the Patron. But his solemn gaze seems to look beyond the spectacle before him, to a far darker place. "

Lumina

http://www.lightningreturns.com/data/assets/lrpr/images/content/characters/lumina3.jpg

A mysterious girl who appears in front of Lightning at every turn.

Her unpredictable nature wreaks havoc everywhere she goes.

A helpful friend or mischievous foe? This capricious little demon plays with Lightning and the rest of the world as if they were toys in a toy box.

"This savior… What is she about, anyway?"

[Tom4784]

Wait is that some potential character development I see for Snow? *checks to see if the sky is falling*

[Scarlett.]

I know, lol! I like the idea of a darker Snow, he's also still a l'cie too, and in the final stages, I wonder what his focus will end up being?

[Scarlett.]

http://i.imgur.com/Gos9DdNl.jpg

[Tom4784]

It's a bit early to start announcing Pre-Order bonuses isn't it since it's not out until next year. It's a cool little bonus though, it'll be interesting to see what abilities will come with it since the outfits and weapons all have their own perks this time around. Maybe she'll end up wit an Omnislash attack.

[Scarlett.]

Y5epVYnA1qI

[Tom4784]

Hope, Fang and Noel have been wearing the same clothes for hundreds of years...****ing scruffs.

The story sounds interesting though.

[Scarlett.]

Interestingly, Hope has changed back to his original costume
http://images4.wikia.nocookie.net/__cb20110918195646/finalfantasy/images/thumb/2/20/Hope_FFXIII-2.png/914px-Hope_FFXIII-2.png
http://www.otakustudy.com/wp-content/gallery2012/lightning-returns-final-fantasy-xiii-japan-expo-screenshots-and-a-look-at-hope-estheim/601c00efd301ef45d2b16e4e2fc62acf.jpg


It's kinda hard to tell wether it is older Hope in those clothes or young Hope, though.
http://storage.siliconera.com/wordpress/wp-content/uploads/2009/07/image-thumb448.png


Turns out he IS a kid again, and he is up on Bhenivulze
http://lightningreturns.com/characters/hope

[Scarlett.]

I feel like an idiot for not realising this is the same place before now
http://i.imgur.com/cM89aZBl.jpg

[Scarlett.]

Lb67-YX2MRM

[Tom4784]

The more I see of it the more I like, the storyline will probably be bad but at least the gameplay looks fun.

Apparently LR will have an interaction with FFX/FFX-2 Remaster but nobody knows that it is, I reckon it'll most likely be a Yuna outfit for Lightning or maybe even a hidden Dressphere or boss battle with Lightning in FFX. Who knows.

[Scarlett.]

I'm hoping for a hidden Lightning battle or something. It's all part of "Final Fantasy Go There", Lightning herself will appear in XIV (and it will be canon in both XIII and XIV), Lightning will also have a Miqo'te costume in XIV.

For the XIII series, the story may be a bit nuts, but I like it :D

[Scarlett.]

New part of the soundtrack revealed

lKdnRUdZQsc

[Scarlett.]

Large image
http://i.imgur.com/1voIkZ9.jpg

[Tom4784]

A Summoner Outfit? I'll be interested to see what her abilities are, I'm guessing she won't be able to summon anything unless it's like in Dissidia when the summons appeared briefly when Yuna attacks.

[Scarlett.]

I hope she can do some sort of summoning, it'd be useless if she was just the basic white mage Yuna, lol.

[Tom4784]

I suppose she could use the special attacks that the Aeons had in FFX.

[Scarlett.]

Yeah, summoning the actual aeons would be weird since there's different versions of summons (Aeons and Eidolons)

These have also been posted (Mog!)
http://image.noelshack.com/fichiers/2013/30/1374939021-lrffxiii-5.jpg

[Scarlett.]

http://www.novacrystallis.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/08/Sazh.jpg

The latest Final Fantasy XIII character to show their face (original outfit and all) in Lightning Returns is Sazh Katzroy – the middle-aged afro-sporting man who originally worked as an airship pilot.

Today’s details on the game come from VJump, which is also said to have details on The Wildlands area of Nova Crystallia as well as Lightning’s Energy Point consumable Scene Drive (Army of One) ability. Further details on her growing list of changeable outfits were included as well, although it might seem familiar to anyone who paid attention to E3.

We’ll be sure to update this post as more information comes in, so stay tuned.

[Scarlett.]

http://www.novacrystallis.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/08/Wildlands.jpg

Here’s the latest batch of new screenshots out of Gamescom for Lightning Returns featuring The Wildlands – the last remaining wilderness in the dying world of Nova Crystalia.

The Wildlands is the fourth continent of Nova Chrysalia, and contains the remnants of the sprawling natural wilderness that once existed on Gran Pulse. Beasts run free here, and the people live a hardy life of self-sufficiency. But behind the lush and bountiful facade seethes Chaos that is especially powerful and dangerous. The Wildlands station is carved into the very face of a mountain. You can look out over sprawling green vistas from the station platform, making it hard to believe that you are still in a world on the brink of destruction. Be careful though – it’s easy to get lost within the massive forests if you’re not checking your map on a regular basis.

In the Wildlands, there exists a mysterious white chocobo known as the “angel of Valhalla.” Lightning saves this creature when it’s attacked by a monster and later agrees to nurse it back to health.

Canopus Farms is one of the small settlements within the Wildlands. The gysahl greens that grow here are considered a local delicacy. Another location within the forests is the Moogle Village – which is run by the very same Mog who once traveled with Lightning’s sister Serah. After being pulled into the expanding vortex of Chaos, Mog wandered around the Void Beyond for ages. After finding out his other moogle comrades had also ended up there, together they decided to build the Moogle Village. Not all is well, however, as Mog is still stricken with guilt over his failure to protect Serah.

Sazh currently lives with his son Dajh, in a house converted from the ruins of a crashed airship. He has been tormented for many hundreds of years by his failure to save his son, who fell into a deep slumber when the world began to collapse, and has not awakened since. Sazh has never give up on the quest to awaken his sleeping son. However, being unable to save him has cast a dark shadow over his heart…

It seems Dajh can’t awaken because his soul is in another place – possibly hid from Sazh by Lumina.

http://squareportal.files.wordpress.com/2013/08/018.jpg?w=1000&h=

http://squareportal.files.wordpress.com/2013/08/004.jpg?w=1000&h=

http://squareportal.files.wordpress.com/2013/08/006.jpg?w=1000&h=

http://squareportal.files.wordpress.com/2013/08/008.jpg?w=1000&h=

http://squareportal.files.wordpress.com/2013/08/014.jpg?w=1000&h=

http://squareportal.files.wordpress.com/2013/08/001.jpg?w=1000&h=

http://squareportal.files.wordpress.com/2013/08/002.jpg?w=1000&h=

http://squareportal.files.wordpress.com/2013/08/003.jpg?w=1000&h=

http://squareportal.files.wordpress.com/2013/08/kuvankaappaus-2013-8-21-kello-10-12-11.png?w=1000&h=

More screenshots here (http://squareportal.net/2013/08/21/brand-new-lightning-returns-gamescom-screenshots-outfit/)

0Uaoq1-gu_0

[Tom4784]

I'm starting to look forward to this, the story will be a disappointment like it always is but the gameplay looks fun.

[Scarlett.]

I dunno, I think the story might be decent this time, seeing as it is ending everything. The tagline in the trailer was ominous though...will we have to choose who to save/sacrifice? D:

It's awesome to see the Moogles back in force though :D

[Tom4784]

If that's the case then Snow will be the first person I sacrifice.

[Scarlett.]

Haha, I don't know, I've kinda warmed to Snow in a weird way, he's always been a bit of an idiot, but he's meant well. Though I'd probably sacrifice him before anyone else, lol.

[Scarlett.]

ssEpJNZ8W74

[Scarlett.]

http://cdn.medialib.computerandvideogames.com/screens/dir_3094/image_309497_full.jpg

Caius is back! :o

[Tom4784]

It was to be expected, the story lends itself for that return.

[Scarlett.]

I liked Caius, he was one of the better villains of recent years.

Also, I noticed in this screenshot, you can see the ruins of Academia

http://cdn.medialib.computerandvideogames.com/screens/dir_3094/image_309485_fit_620.jpg

[Novo]

I'm not really interesting in Lightning or any of the original playable characters, i liked Noel, Serah, Caius and Yeul though so i'll get it just to see how it all ends with them lot

[Scarlett.]

I think the XIII-2 cast were definately a step up from the XIII cast, so it's good to see they will all be back.

[Scarlett.]

Just played the demo, its a lot of fun.

[Tom4784]

I'm playing through XIII-2 and I have to say, playing it back to back with XIII highlights a lot of it's flaws. The gameplay is less challenging, the graphics are pretty ugly and the story is worse than I remember. I still like the monster system and the Crystarium but I've got to say the game as a whole is not as good as XIII. I've done a bit of a 180 when it comes to XIII, it's a lot better than I thought. It does have flaws but they are forgiveable.

[Scarlett.]

k8uXhPxk_1w

[Tom4784]

This makes me want to play FF6.

[Scarlett.]

Been playing this the past few days, I absolutely love it so far, some people might not like it due to the counting clock, but I personally don't mind it

[Tom4784]

I don't find the clock that bad, Chronostasis pretty much allows you to play at your own pace and it's easy enough to keep your EP up.

It's a really good game, the story isn't great at the moment but the gameplay is fantastic.

[Scarlett.]

The story seems to be getting a bit more interested after doing the Dead Dune's mission, it seems.

[Tom4784]

I'm not too interested in the story with this game, it's the gameplay that has got me hooked. I honestly think it has the best battle system of any RPG I've ever played.

[Scarlett.]

The story in XIII's franchise went a bit crazy in XIII-2, but I still like it, mainly for the characters. I agree about the battle system, its a lot of fun.

[Tom4784]

I'm on Day 7 now, I think one criticism I have is that they could have done with a few more Main Quests. I had it all wrapped up by Day 6 and now I'm just tying up loose ends for half the game.

[Scarlett.]

I'm on Day 7 now, I think one criticism I have is that they could have done with a few more Main Quests. I had it all wrapped up by Day 6 and now I'm just tying up loose ends for half the game.

I'm at the exact same point, though I think for people playing on hard/normal, they're probably a bit closer to the final day :p

[Scarlett.]

My final boss score (blanked out the name)
http://i.imgur.com/2t0djvF.png

I loved this game, it was a fantastic ending to the XIII series. I know in general, XIII hasnt been every FF fan's cup of tea, but I really liked all three games, I hope in time that at least XIII will get some of the praise it deserved. I recently went back to XIII and despite it being a bit more linear, I think its a good Final Fantasy game. I will be glad when Noctis becomes the new face of Final Fantasy though, I think everybody is ready for the XV era now.